Chorak (Angelica archangelica)

Botanical Name: Angelica archangelica

Family: Apiaceae

Description: Chorak, commonly known as Angelica, is a biennial or perennial herb that grows up to 2 meters tall. It has a hollow, fluted stem, large bipinnate leaves, and clusters of small, greenish-white flowers arranged in umbels. The plant has a thick, aromatic root which is often used in Ayurvedic medicine.

Occurrence: Chorak is native to temperate and subarctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere, particularly in Europe and Asia. It is found in moist, fertile soils, often in woodlands, meadows, and along riverbanks.

Chemical Constituents:

• Essential oils (α-pinene, β-pinene, limonene, borneol)
• Coumarins (angelicin, archangelicin)
• Furanocoumarins (psoralen, bergapten)
• Flavonoids
• Tannins
• Organic acids
  
  

Guna (Properties):

• Rasa (Taste): Katu (pungent), Tikta (bitter), Madhura (sweet)
• Virya (Potency): Ushna (hot)
• Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Katu (pungent)
  
  

Uses:

1. Digestive Health: Alleviates indigestion, bloating, and colic.
2. Respiratory Health: Treats cough, cold, and bronchitis.
3. Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and pain, useful in treating arthritis and muscle pain.
4. Nervous System: Acts as a nervine tonic, improving overall nervous system function.
5. Detoxification: Promotes detoxification and supports liver health.
6. Menstrual Health: Regulates menstrual cycles and alleviates menstrual pain.
   
   

Mode of Action: Chorak’s digestive benefits are attributed to its carminative and stimulant properties, which help alleviate indigestion and colic by promoting healthy digestion and reducing gas. The essential oils in Chorak have expectorant properties that help in treating respiratory conditions by loosening mucus and easing breathing. Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties make it beneficial for treating pain and inflammation, particularly in arthritis and muscle pain. The nervine tonic effect of Chorak supports the nervous system and helps reduce anxiety and stress. Additionally, its detoxifying properties help in promoting liver health and regulating menstrual cycles.

Home Remedies:

1. For Digestive Health: Take 1/2 teaspoon of Chorak root powder with warm water after meals to alleviate indigestion and bloating.
2. For Respiratory Health: Prepare a decoction of Chorak root and consume it to relieve cough and cold.
3. For Anti-inflammatory Effect: Apply a paste made from Chorak root powder and water on the affected area to reduce inflammation and pain.
4. For Nervous System Support: Take a tea made from Chorak leaves to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
5. For Menstrual Health: Consume Chorak root decoction to regulate menstrual cycles and alleviate menstrual pain.
   
   

Dosage:

• Powder: 1-3 grams, twice a day with warm water or as directed by an Ayurvedic practitioner.
• Decoction: 50-100 ml, once or twice a day.
• Paste: Apply externally as needed.
  
  

Note: Dosage may vary based on individual health conditions and should be taken under the supervision of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner.

Chorak is a versatile and valuable herb in Ayurveda, known for its wide range of therapeutic benefits, particularly for digestive health, respiratory conditions, and as a nervine tonic.